The boys’ and girls’ track and field teams successfully competed in their regional competition this past Saturday at Calvary Christian to qualify for states.  

Five Raiders qualified for the state track meet: Eli Goldman ‘22 for the high jump competition, Nicole Tacher ‘21 for the 300–meter hurdles, Brooke Scott ‘21 for the 800–meter run, and the 4×400 relay team of Marella Rebessi ‘24, Brooke Scott ‘21, Nicole Tacher ‘21, and Mia Balestra ‘21. Balestra ‘21 is also the regional champion for the javelin competition.  

“I am super excited to continue competing and getting better to prepare for states next weekend in Jacksonville,” said Balestra. “It was very fun at regionals because all of the girls are so good at their event, and we were all throwing new personal records. For the most part, track is an individual sport, but it feels like we are one team because we always support each other, cheer, and watch everyone’s event. Cheering for my teammates is my favorite part.” 

“Competing against higher competition was a lot of fun,” said Goldman. “Everyone respected each other and supported each other. The competition pushed me to jump as high as I could. I really wanted to come in second place, but I am happy with how I finished in 3rd. I am excited to be traveling to Jacksonville next weekend to represent our school.” 

Alex Dray ‘21 placed for the 3200–meter run, and Aidan Rothstein ‘22 and Noah Gold placed for the pole vaulting competition. The boys’ 4×800 team of Leo Gershman ‘22, Daniel Mateu ‘21, Sebastian Mateu ‘21, and Justin Wong ‘21 placed as well, as did a great 4×400 team that included Jayden Vrins ‘21, Luca Campiani ‘22, Danny Daley ‘22, and Justin Wong ‘21. Matthew Gallagher ‘21 also recorded a new school record in the javelin competition of 106f. Lindsay Gould ‘21 and Juliana Williamson ‘22 were also among the RE students who placed in the regional competition. 

“It feels rewarding that I was able to finish the year with a school record,” said Gallagher. “I am definitely going to miss throwing javelin, so hopefully I can find some ways to continue throwing. I felt like this was a great season because of all the great people, including coaches and athletes that helped make RE Track and Field one of the best environments on campus. I am going to miss throwing with my teammates at practice and just the funny moments that we had together.” 

The team will travel to Jacksonville this coming weekend to compete in the state competition with their head coach Mike Becker.  

“I am very excited to be traveling to Jacksonville this weekend,” said Becker. “It was a very difficult year because we had more obstacles than any school in the state, and I am very proud of the juniors and seniors that made it to states. I am more than confident that we are going to perform well.”